Besigye’s aide Mugumya’s bid for Rukungiri Municipality shakes PFF stronghold
Mugumya's political journey began in the early 2000s when, as a student at Makerere University, he joined the Reform Agenda. He later became Besigye’s aide-de-camp upon his return from exile in South Africa.
Sam Mugumya, who was Dr Kiiza Besigye's aide, shaking ground with his track record of a political activist. (Photo by Isaac Nuwagaba)
By Isaac Nuwagaba
Journalists @New Vision
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Sam Mugumya, a former political dissident and aide to the arrested Dr Kizza Besigye, has entered the race for the Rukungiri Municipality parliamentary seat on the People's Front for Freedom (PFF) ticket.
His decision has unsettled the party’s traditional base, which has long rallied behind Besigye’s leadership. Mugumya will contest against prominent figures, including Ingrid Turinawe Kamateneti, the women’s league leader trusted by Besigye, as well as former Rukungiri Municipality legislator and PFF western region vice president Roland Mugume Kaginda, and Dr Wallen Tumwine Nuwagaba.
Former Rukungiri Municipality MP, Roland Mugume Kaginda's chances of acquiring PFF card dwindling after Byanyima's approval. (Photo by Isaac Nuwagaba)
Ingrid Turinawe Kamateneti who has been working extremely hard to see Dr Kiiza Besigye on the verge of losing PFF party card for Rukungiri Municipality. (Photo By Isaac Nuwagaba)
Mugumya, once a staunch Forum for Democratic Change (FDC) supporter, joined the PFF when it was formed. He spent eight years in Ndolo Military Prison in the Democratic Republic of Congo after his arrest in October 2014, gaining a reputation as one of Uganda’s most resilient opposition activists.
His political journey began in the early 2000s when, as a student at Makerere University, he joined the Reform Agenda. He later became Besigye’s aide-de-camp upon his return from exile in South Africa.
In 2017, while still imprisoned, Mugumya wrote to the Congolese justice minister, asking to be executed so he could be “free forever”. He was released on October 21, 2022.
Byanyima backs Mugumya
Besigye’s wife, Winnie Byanyima, has openly endorsed Mugumya, hailing his contribution to the struggle for democracy and freedom. Her declaration has divided opinion within the PFF.
“As a resident of Rukungiri Municipality, I am coming out early to full-heartedly endorse Sam Mugumya. He is tested. Sam is a fearless defender of human rights and a champion of justice and democracy. Sam will be an effective representative of Rukungiri Municipality,” Byanyima declared.
Mugumya’s background
Mugumya’s decision to run is rooted in a long history of activism and loyalty to Besigye. He was a key figure in the Activists for Change (A4C) pressure group and a visible leader during the “Walk to Work” protests in 2011. His leadership roles, including secretary general of the FDC Youth League and personal assistant to Besigye, have given him extensive political experience.
The contest ahead
The Rukungiri Municipality seat is shaping up to be fiercely contested. If successful, Mugumya faces Lt Gen. Henry Tumukunde, a former presidential candidate, who recently defeated incumbent Dr Elisa Rutahirwa to secure the National Resistance Movement (NRM) flag in the primary elections.
Tumukunde’s security background and political profile add weight to the race, making the contest even more competitive.
Political analyst Charles Rwomushana believes Mugumya’s candidacy could disrupt the PFF’s traditional dominance.
“As a long-time resident of the area and a well-known figure in the party, Mugumya's bid could galvanise support among voters looking for a candidate with a strong track record of activism and commitment to justice and democracy,” Rwomushana said.
Still, he noted that internal party dynamics will be crucial, as figures like Kamateneti are unlikely to give way easily when faced with Besigye’s close ally.
Challenges for Mugumya
Despite his strong credentials, Mugumya faces significant obstacles.
“He will need to overcome internal party rivalries and secure the support of PFF members in Rukungiri Municipality. Additionally, he will have to navigate the complexities of electoral politics, including campaign financing, voter mobilisation, and policy articulation,” Rwomushana explained.
As campaigns heat up, voters will be watching closely to see which candidate can best represent their interests while championing democracy and justice.
Mugumya’s history of activism and loyalty to Besigye may give him an edge, but the final outcome will depend on voter sentiment, party unity and each candidate’s ability to deliver compelling policy promises.